Until the Time Comes
by Tanya Person
As a child, I had a hard time waiting for Christmas or my birthday, because I wanted to open my presents! As I was growing up, when I had to wait in a doctor’s office, or wait in line, or wait for a parade to start, or the worst - wait in traffic – it was hard for me, as I had little patience for waiting. Then I received Jesus in my heart, and He began working on my character.
What do you think He began to work on first? Long suffering! Have you ever prayed for the fruit of the Spirit in your life? I have, and the faithfulness of God prevailed to work on those nine items listed in Galatians 5 as the fruit of the Spirit. Have you ever had dreams about your future? Joesph did, and he ended up in prison, accused of wrongs he didn’t commit.
Did you know God is more concerned about your character than your status? Why is that? Have you ever thought about the ‘why’ of your difficulties? Have you ever thought that maybe your ‘why’ is for you to have the willingness to allow God to change how you act, think, behave, or believe?
God has a purpose and plan for your life. It’s not to see you suffer, but He does want you to develop His character in your life. Do you think Joseph maybe wondered why? Yet Joseph embraced his situation and allowed God to shape him into His vessel.
I implore you today to allow God to shape you until the time comes for Him to release you into your calling and purpose. Let His Spirit shape your character, so you are ready when the time comes.
Psalm 105 has verses showing all those who are still waiting for the time of their dreams to be fulfilled how they are to shape their lives. So, while you wait, sing praises to the Lord as the psalmist did in verses 2–3. “Sing to him; yes, sing his praises. Tell everyone about his wonderful deeds. Exult in his holy name. Rejoice, you who worship the LORD.”
Rejoice in the Lord who sets time in its place.
Tanya Person Tanya and her husband, Jim, were missionaries to Hungary for over 18 years. They have worked with Ellel since 2005. After serving in various positions with Ellel in Central and Eastern Europe, God led them back to the United States, where they are now serving with the Ellel USA team. They have a passion to see leaders restored, the church discipled and walking in God’s fullness of life and freedom, and for mentoring the existing and developing team. Tanya also enjoys crocheting and knitting in her free time and has written some children’s picture books.
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